When to go: Although the park is open year round over half its visitors come in July and August. In spring Waterton's 900 species of wildflowers and plants begin blooming along the lakeshores and across the prairle and mountain meadows. June's Waterton Wild Flower Festival celebrates the explosion of color rare orchids bear grass and 30 kinds of flowers that only grow here with photography workshops guided hikes and field classes. Says Banff transplant Mary Harding It's like walking through a bouquet whereever you go. Fall foliage paints the landscape in wonderful yellows and reds and late autumn hosts thousands of migrating waterfowl. Blasting chinook winds make Waterton one of the warmest areas in Alberta each winter however visitor facilities services and accommodation options are limited.
How get around:The 158 mile drive to the park from the Calgary airport into the Rockies is one of Canada's most scenic. U.S. residents can access the park from Montana through the Chief Mountain(open May to September) or Carway/Piegan crossing(open year round). All there of the Waterton Lakes (Upper Middle and Lower) are along the entry road. There are about 120 miles of hiking trails in the park along with more than 200 miles of mountain biking trails. June through early September book a shuttle ride with Tamarack Outdoor Outfitters to reach Cameron Lake and popular biking and backpacking routes. To cover more ground resident Towe also a local tour guide picks up a horse at Alpine Stables which provides guided horseback tours.
Where to stay: Parks Canada operates three campsites in the park. The towsite grounds are ideal for RVs and close to the towns amenities. The Crandell Mountain campsite is along the Red Rock Parkway and features five traditional tepees for rent. Belly River is an unserviced primitive campground open seasonally for those seeking more seclusio. Opened by Great Northern Railway in 1927 the Prince of Wales Hotel was designed to lure American tourists into the Rockies with its luxury accommodation and sweeping views. It still does. Other good options include the Waterton Glacier Suites Aspen Village Inn and Crandell Mountain Lodge.What to eat or drink: Enjoy Albertan beef at the Lakeside Chophouse which has a patio overlooking the lakes. For a quick lunch follow the crowd to Wieners of Waterton for gourmet hotdogs and sweet potato fries. Hiker favorite Pearl's Cafe hosts the Waterton Hiking Meetup Group so it's easy to join a group hike here. Before hitting the trail fuel up with a Hungry Hiker breakfast warp (scrambled eggs sausage cheddar cheese salsa bacon peppers greens and mayo). What to buy: Books local souvenirs and guides about the area can be picked up at the Waterton Natural History Association Heritage Centtre. Worth the Splurge on Waterton Avenue carries an eclectic mix of jewelry locally blown glass crystals soaps and lotions. Find leathers fur and locally made sheepskin at Caribou Clothes.